Search for pelagic birds and marine mammals 3–20 miles offshore with expert naturalists
6 Hours
Expert naturalists, Heated cabin
Step aboard the American Star for a half-day exploration of the inshore pelagic zone off Cape May. Join expert marine mammal and pelagic bird naturalists as you search 3–20 miles offshore for wildlife.
Arrive 30 minutes before departure to check in. Outside food is allowed; no outside alcoholic beverages. Standard manual wheelchairs may be assisted onboard, but power wheelchairs cannot be accommodated.
Tickets are nonrefundable. You may reschedule with at least 48 hours’ notice. Trips sail rain or shine; if the captain cancels for severe weather, you may reschedule, receive a gift card, or a refund minus processing fees.
Yes, free parking is available in the designated Whale Watch lot.
Yes, the American Star has 4 restrooms onboard.
Trips sail rain or shine; if the Captain cancels for severe weather, you can reschedule or receive a refund minus processing fees.
Cape May, NJ
The crew here consistently earns praise for their knowledge and enthusiasm, with naturalists like Garret, Conner, and Tom Reed providing educational commentary throughout trips. The boat itself gets high marks for comfort, featuring both indoor and outdoor seating, reasonably priced food and drinks, and onsite parking. Guests appreciate the educational focus, with staff conducting sessions for kids and even sharing eBird lists for birders on the longer pelagic excursions. Wildlife sightings vary by season and luck, but the company handles this honestly. Dolphins appear frequently, especially during summer sunset cruises, while whale encounters are less predictable. Several reviewers mentioned not seeing whales but still thoroughly enjoying the experience thanks to the crew's expertise and the beautiful coastal scenery. The operation offers free return tickets when marine life is particularly scarce, which guests find generous. Trip options range from standard two-hour cruises to ambitious 12 and 24-hour pelagic adventures for serious birders and wildlife enthusiasts, giving you flexibility based on your interest level and schedule.
If you are searching for the best whale watching tours in Cape May, look no further than The Cape May Whale Watch and Research Center. They should genuinely be everyone's #1 choice for whale and dolphin watching in Cape May! My family has been on numerous trips with them over the years, and they never disappoint. The entire crew and expert naturalists always go above and beyond to ensure all guests have a fun, educational, and safe experience on the water. Every single marine mammal sighting is handled with the utmost respect for wildlife, and their knowledge of the local marine ecosystem is unmatched. If you want a top-tier Cape May boat tour that offers incredible wildlife encounters, great hospitality, and excellent value, this is it. We wouldn't go anywhere else! Highly recommend!
Bryan Drew
July 6, 2026
If you are searching for the best whale watching tours in Cape May, look no further than The Cape May Whale Watch and Research Center. They should genuinely be everyone's #1 choice for whale and dolphin watching in Cape May! My family has been on numerous trips with them over the years, and they never disappoint. The entire crew and expert naturalists always go above and beyond to ensure all guests have a fun, educational, and safe experience on the water. Every single marine mammal sighting is handled with the utmost respect for wildlife, and their knowledge of the local marine ecosystem is unmatched. If you want a top-tier Cape May boat tour that offers incredible wildlife encounters, great hospitality, and excellent value, this is it. We wouldn't go anywhere else! Highly recommend!
Bryan Drew
July 6, 2026
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